Lab Technician Review

My role involves laboratory analysis of cement products, as well as the raw materials used to manufacture the cement, to assure adherence to British and European Standards of quality. I am also involved in the calibration of testing equipment to ensure accurate and repeatable testing of samples.

I have learned a range of new skills, including best practices for a laboratory environment, time management, communication with colleagues and management as well as liaising with external departments. I have also become more involved with presentation and reporting of various results, trials, and training to provide clear and consistent knowledge to the team.

I have made great use of what I have learned through this programme and have enjoyed learning about an industry of which I previously knew very little about. I also greatly appreciate the connections I have made with other apprentices and graduates on my level from throughout the company and industry. Having said that, I am eager for the programme to be completed so that I can focus entirely on my role and how I can progress in my day-to-day responsibilities.

Very well organised; dates for modules are communicated well in advance and all participants are given opportunities to voice concerns or difficulties which can be taken into account and adjustments made. Modules are paced out over 2 days so that discussion and activites are not condensed, which helps to maximise learning and allows ample time for questions to be asked.

My employer, and the management team to whom I directly report, have been incredibly supportive and make allowances for any time required for courses and studying. They are also eager to drive me to progress and regularly offer me opportunities to take additional training or visit other sites within the company to broaden my understanding and communication network.

My training provider operates on an open door policy; for the most part I am left to be responsible for my own learning and progress towards deadlines and qualifications, but semi-regular catch-ups allow me to report my current progress and I am able to get in touch any time in order to receive guidance where necessary.

Mostly in how I can present myself to my colleagues. I have gained a variety of presentation and communication skills which allow me to inform, and where needed, debate certain points of interest, and the knowledge acquired from University learning has put me in a position where I am experienced enough to be trusted in my opinions and decisions.

Not directly through my workplace, although those opportunities are regularly available. I have, however, been on several training courses or user meetings that have expenses paid, which have allowed me to socialise with various personnel over a vast range of experiences and professions; building a network and learning about how varied the applications of my work can be.

Yes

As my background is in retail, I have often in the past struggled with feeling unimportant within a working role, plus there was always a sense that it was a dead end career. Since starting with Tarmac, I have gained a sense of individuality, where my role and responsibilities are respected by my colleagues, and management are constantly pushing me to improve myself by giving me opportunities to build and progress.

Keep in mind that Tarmac is a multi-faceted organisation with opportunities ranging a wide array of skills professions. Tarmac always seem eager to make the most out of their employees and are willing to put each person's experiences to good use in a way that is mutually beneficial. I, for example, have been moved from quality testing for Tarmac's Postcrete product, to involvement in equipment calibrations, proficiency testing, and general lab maintenance.